STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. - We asked Ms. Granatelli if she took advantage of resources on Staten Island.

"Yes, I do. I go to all the museums and to many other cultural activities. Staten Island is only nine miles by fourteen miles. You can't get lost. It is easy to see everything. If hiking is someone's interest, it is possible to hike on many miles of hiking trails. If theater is an interest, there are many performing groups. We have a ballet company and a symphony orchestra, among other fine things.

"There is such a variety of things for both adults and children - all kinds of interests can be met. But, many people don't take advantage of what is available. They tend to stay within their own circle and don't get to know what other groups are doing or what they have to offer. They would learn many things and enrich their lives if they got to know people from groups other than their own and participated in activities other than the ones they are accustomed to doing.

"One of our schools was voted as the best in the country. It is another proof of the fact that Staten Island has many special things and what people can accomplish if they work together.

"Another thing that Staten Island can be proud of is the St. George Theatre. Starting from the bottom, the theatre now hosts big acts and has a great variety of things.

"Staten Islanders are lucky to have - and should embrace - all of our wonderful, unique cultural landmarks. All of our events should have full audiences. Staten Islanders don't know what they are missing if they don't take advantage of our many resources.